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London bike shops for a cyclocross test ride
Hi all
I'm keen to buy a cyclocross bike, I'm about 6'4" tall and finding it difficult to see bikes in stock in shops in London. I've seen a large colnago wc and a khs 200, but 2010 models. However I've not yet seen a cube x-race or a scott or the jake the snake anywhere. My budget is around a grand, but could go higher.
Is it too late in the 2011 model year? Or are there better shops in the central / east london area to try. I've been to CycleSurgery Holborn, Kings Cross and Spitalfields, plus Evans in Spitalfields. I've also been to UK Cycles in Romford, plus my LBS in Wanstead.
I'm loathed to pay a 10-50% non-refundable deposit in a 1000 pound bike.
So on my list are Mosquito, but where else should I be visiting?
or should I wait until August for the new 2012 bikes?
I want a pre-dominantly cx bike, not really into touring, nor pure road. It'll not get used for commuting, as I've got my brompton for that.
many thanks Gavin
Tags: london
Views: 389
Replies to This Discussion
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Permalink Reply by Gavin Bell on -
Answering my own question, it seems that on your bike by London Bridge have quite a good range, genesis and cannondale, plus some marin bikes too. They also have sane ordering policies too, 50 quid returnable on 2011 bikes.
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Permalink Reply by John Gould on -
It isn't an answer to your question but do have a look at Jake the Snake if you can. I am 6ft 4 ins as well. I have a 62cm bike and it has to be the most fun I have had on 2 wheels for ages, it beats my mtbs for pure fun value but it also doubles up as a winter bike really well. It seems to achieve the difficult trick of being comfortable while keeping that competitive edge. I recently did a 30 + mile off road loop - usually tackled on my mtb and for the first time ever, finished with no shoulder or back pain.I built mine up with a fairly eclectic mix of bits and bobs (from my parts bin plus anything I could find second hand) with the important bits being new. The whole build was circa £700 and is as light as I'd want it to be.
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Permalink Reply by Gavin Bell on
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thanks, I've been tempted by the Jake the Snake too. Lack of back pain combined with fun would be great =)
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Permalink Reply by John Gould on
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I wrote a review for my blog here if you're interested;
http://suffolkcyclist.wordpress.com/2011/01/25/kona-jake-the-snake-...
it isn't very good but it gives you the gist.
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Permalink Reply by Gavin Bell on
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Lovely, very helpful review of the bike and you gave a great sense of what a cross bike will be like in Epping. I might well be sold... cheers Gavin
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